Rolling out the news you want

Welcome to the BLUNT Newsletter, your direct access to pop culture that is short and to the point.

CANNABIS

Toronto researchers investigate cannabis’s impact on music perception, partnering with Club Lit lounge to study real-time effects and therapeutic potential.

NHTSA launches new marijuana-themed PSAs for impaired driving, shifting from past ads with negative stereotypes to relatable holiday campaigns.

California’s marijuana cafe law, effective January 2025, allows on-site consumption with non-cannabis food, drinks, and live events. Businesses like The Woods in West Hollywood are expanding under the policy. Local governments are drafting regulations, potentially delaying full implementation.

US NEWS

New York judge schedules Trump’s hush-money sentencing for Jan. 10, days before his second presidential term begins.

Mike Johnson reelected as House Speaker, securing 218 votes, avoiding prolonged voting, and enabling Congress to resume business.

Surgeon General recommends cancer warnings on alcoholic drinks, citing strong evidence linking alcohol consumption to several cancer types.

Deadly incidents in New Orleans, Las Vegas raise domestic terrorism fears ahead of presidential inauguration, leaving questions about motives unanswered.

WORLD NEWS

South Korea’s impeached president resists arrest as standoff unfolds, with law enforcement retreating after a six-hour confrontation.

Russia vows retaliation after claiming to down US-made missiles, escalating tensions as Ukraine faces increasing military and political challenges.

Israel considers limiting humanitarian aid to Gaza post-inauguration, risking exacerbating humanitarian crisis amid ongoing conflict and rising famine concerns.

SPORTS

Jimmy Butler’s tenure with the Miami Heat nears an end after suspension for “conduct detrimental.” Butler requested a trade, citing lost joy in basketball. Miami now entertains trade offers, despite complexities due to Butler’s age, salary, and potential team fits.

LeBron James surpasses Michael Jordan for most 30-point NBA games, achieving 563 over 22 seasons in Lakers’ win over Hawks.

Rex Ryan to interview for Jets head coach job. New York explores past success while rebuilding after firing GM and head coach.

POP CULTURE

Wayne Osmond, founding member of The Osmonds, dies at 73 following a stroke, remembered for hits and lasting musical legacy.

Bruce Springsteen praises Jeremy Allen White’s portrayal of him in the biopic Deliver Me from Nowhere, highlighting White’s acting and impressive singing ability.

Andrew Garfield denies signing on for Spider-Man 4, despite previously misleading fans about his cameo in No Way Home.

BUSINESS

Nasdaq climbs 1.8%, S&P 500 rises 1.3%, Dow gains 0.8%.

Biden blocks Nippon Steel’s $15B US Steel purchase, citing national security concerns and the need for domestic industry ownership.

JetBlue fined $2M for chronic delays; half compensates passengers, citing “unrealistic scheduling” on four East Coast routes.

Apple settles $95M lawsuit over Siri’s unauthorized recordings, offering up to $20 per device to eligible users.

Quote of the Day:

“Happiness is good health and a bad memory.”

- Ingrid Bergman

That's all for now! We hope you enjoyed this edition of the BLUNT Newsletter. Have a fantastic rest of your day!